November 19th, 2010

New GCF Certification Scheme for products with integrated cellular modules

The new GCF certification processes is aiming
at industry sectors such as

smart metering

automotive applications

health applications

notebooks

other electronic devices

For such devices wireless communications is not the prime function. However they often have integrated wireless connectivity via an embedded 3GPP wireless module. By adding wireless connectivity many products can now feature enhanced functionalities and user appeal.

In order to ensure that such devices work perfectly in operators networks but without any negative impacts on their networks or other wireless devices in use, GCF has developed a special certification scheme. The straightforward GCF certification process has been adapted specifically for products with embedded GCF Certified 3GPP modules.
The “device<->module” pairs need to be individually certified for GCF certification. The validity period of module certification
has been extended to 3 years, in order to take account of the expected life-cycles of such devices.

Testing will focus mainly on functionalities like antenna, SIM contacts and user-interface.

The necessary conformance tests, interoperability tests and field trial tests have to be performed by ISO 17025 accredited test laboratories such as 7layers.

7layers runs several GCF accredited laboratories in various locations worldwide.

We are an active member in all GCF working groups and are highly competent to guide you through all technical and procedural process elements. Manufacturers can rely on our extensive and up-to-date know how of the GCF certification process and the special know how we have established in recent years when working for various M2M industries.

7layers runs several GCF accredited laboratories in various locations worldwide.

We are an active member in all GCF working groups and are highly competent to guide you through all technical and procedural process elements. Manufacturers can rely on our extensive and up-to-date know how of the GCF certification process and the special know how we have established in recent years when working for various M2M industries.

In addition to GCF certification for devices with embedded 3GPP modules, we offer